Military PCS Moving Costs — Complete 2026 Guide
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💰 Cost Breakdown
| Item | Low | Average | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Household goods shipment Fully covered by government up to weight allowance | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Weight overage fees $0.40-0.60 per pound over allowance - can be expensive | $0 | $500 | $2,000+ |
| Travel expenses (reimbursed) Mileage, hotels, meals - fully reimbursed with receipts | $800 | $1,500 | $3,000 |
| Pet transportation Not covered by government; varies by distance and pet size | $300 | $800 | $2,000 |
| Temporary lodging (TLE/TLA) Government provides allowance; may not cover full costs in expensive areas | $0 | $600 | $1,200 |
| House hunting trip TDY with per diem provided for authorized trips | $0 | $800 | $1,500 |
| Personally Procured Move (PPM) Can be profitable if done efficiently; government pays based on estimated cost | -$2,000 | -$500 | $1,000 |
Household goods shipment
Fully covered by government up to weight allowance
Weight overage fees
$0.40-0.60 per pound over allowance - can be expensive
Travel expenses (reimbursed)
Mileage, hotels, meals - fully reimbursed with receipts
Pet transportation
Not covered by government; varies by distance and pet size
Temporary lodging (TLE/TLA)
Government provides allowance; may not cover full costs in expensive areas
House hunting trip
TDY with per diem provided for authorized trips
Personally Procured Move (PPM)
Can be profitable if done efficiently; government pays based on estimated cost
💡 Money-Saving Tips
Keep all receipts for full reimbursement of authorized travel expenses
Consider Personally Procured Moves (PPM/DITY) for potential profit
Use government travel charge card for all PCS expenses to simplify reimbursement
Stay under weight allowances to avoid expensive overage charges
Book government lodging when available instead of commercial hotels